After Niguelas I returned to Malaga to take a weekend of down hill withSwitch-backs.com. I needed to find a way to get back there, but purely by chance I mentioned my probem to Queta at the B&B and she said her husband Manuel was going to Malaga and would give me a lift. He managed to get all my kit in the back of his car, and took me and friend of his all the way to Malaga – which was very kind.
He dropped me off in Torremolinos, and I cycled the rest of the way. And OMG what a dump Torremolinos is. It is all bland 1970’s blocks of hotels with crumbling conncrete and small shabby shops, most of which were closed as it’s low season. Benalmedena, where switchbacks are located is much nicer. Michael, who runs the place, rents out a huge villa for a few months, stocks it with bike repair kit. Switchbacks customers stay there and get lifts up to the hills in a van (driven by Jesus and Lucky – both very auspicious names). The resident guide is an expert downhill racer called Alex who competes at world cup level. He’s very good at guiding and giving tips on technique. The other riders were also al better than me and my particular thanks go to Jon, Elizabeth and Rory who helped my oout in multiple ways.
Day 1 was difficult but OK.
Day 2, although the tracks were either easier or ones I had done on day 1, turned out to be a catastrophy. I just couldn’t stay on my bike. As a result I am now covered in cuts and bruises. i even managed to get my elbow cut THROUGH my body armour.
The villa we stayed in is pretty gorgeous…lots of space, pool and a bike maintenance area.
I’ve put together some footage of the various descents.
Have a look at the good bits:
…and the bad bits:
My Epic Journey 